The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging competitive exams in India. To excel in the Mains stage of this examination, which is the second phase, candidates often choose an optional subject that aligns with their strengths and interests. Psychology, as an optional subject, has gained popularity over the years due to its interdisciplinary nature and the fact that it can be relatable to various aspects of general studies. To prepare effectively for UPSC Mains 2023, 2022, or any other year, aspirants must make judicious use of previous year papers. These papers offer invaluable insights into the exam pattern, question types, and the depth of knowledge required. For psychology optional, going through the previous year papers from 2013 to 2023 can help candidates understand the evolving trends, focus areas, and the level of proficiency expected by the UPSC examiners.
By analyzing the UPSC Mains psychology optional previous year papers from 2013 to 2023, aspirants can identify recurring themes and topics that are frequently asked, allowing them to prioritize their study efforts effectively. Moreover, these papers serve as excellent practice material for honing answer-writing skills, as they showcase the expected format, depth, and conciseness required for scoring well in the psychology optional paper. It’s essential for candidates to not only solve these papers but also to critically evaluate their responses to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, studying previous year papers can help candidates anticipate the kind of questions that might be asked in the upcoming exams and tailor their preparation accordingly. Overall, the strategic use of UPSC Mains psychology optional previous year papers is an indispensable tool for those aspiring to succeed in this demanding examination.
Question Paper Specific Instructions
- Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions :
- There are EIGHT questions divided in two SECTIONS and printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
- Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.
- Questions no. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE from each section.
- The number of marks carried by a question / part is indicated against it.
- Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided. No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
- Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.
- Illustrate your answers with suitable sketches, maps and diagrams. These shall be drawn in the space provided for answering the question itself.
- Attempts of questions shall be counted in chronological order. Unless struck off, attempt of a question shall be counted even if attempted partly. Any page or portion of the page left blank in the answer book must be clearly struck off.
Psychology Optional Question Paper-1 (2023)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each : 10×5=50 marks
(a) How is the descriptive type of research different from diagnostic research? Answer the question giving suitable examples of each.
(b) “Mental health study is the major trend in Psychological studies in the 21st century.” Discuss.
(c) What do you mean by subliminal perception? Discuss its role in advertising with the help of suitable examples.
(d) Your relative is going through chemotherapy. How will your knowledge about learning theories be helpful?
(e) Discuss the factors facilitating problem-solving.
2. (a) Explain in detail the use of computer technology in psychological studies. Give your answer citing appropriate recent work in the field.
(b) Describe multiple intelligence theory and its measurement.
(c) Why is the research method considered to be the back–bone of any research? Discuss various steps to be undertaken in Psychological research for sound and reliable results.
3.(a) Describe the factors influencing perceptual organization with reference to past experiences and perceptual readiness.
(b) What do you understand about the psychological and physiological basis of motivation? Discuss them giving suitable examples.
(c) Discuss some key ideas from Psycho Cybernetics.
4. (a) Compare and contrast between programmed and probability learning and also highlight their advantages and disadvantages.
b). Do you think that in multicultural society, socialisation is a big issue? Give your opinion in this regard and suggest proper socialisation mechanism
c). Differentiate among a theory, a hypothesis and an operational definition.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
A) Should the researcher always formulate a hypothesis before collecting data? Justify your answer with an appropriate example.
B) Discuss recent trends in the field of decision-making.
C) How does gender differences account for behaviour?
D) What hypothetical ideas lead to the development of projective personality tests?
E) “Knowledge without use is useless.” Discuss the statement focussing on the application of psychology in resolving societal problems.
6. A) In view of Piaget, “Intellectual development takes place through stages which occur in a fixed order and which are universal regardless of social and cultural background.” Critically examine Piaget’s point of view in detail.
B) Discuss formation of stereotypes and prejudices with the help of suitable examples.
C) Explain how a double-blind experiment is used to overcome experimenter bias and participant expectancy effects.
7. A) How do intelligence and aptitude differ ? Explain the two in the light of ‘g’ and ‘s’ factors of intelligence giving suitable examples.
B) What is the meaning and significance of plasticity of perception? Discuss.
C) What are the steps for effective communication training? Discuss in detail.
8. A) Do childhood experiences affect us in our entire lives? Elaborate your answer in the light of personality theories.
B) How can the memory be improved with the help of organisation and mnemonic techniques?
C) “Human behaviour is affected by multiple factors that tend to overlap. As a result of which it is difficult to analyse the cause of behaviour.” Discuss.
Psychology Optional Question Paper-2 (2023)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each : 10×5=50 marks
(a) Compare directional and non-directional therapies with reference to their effectiveness.
(b) Give a comparative analysis of positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
(c) Explain the nature and significance of biofeedback therapy.
(d) Explain the nature of dyslexia. How can it be diagnosed?
(e) “Appreciating diversity is considered as a core value for a community psychologist in India.” Justify.
2. (a) Discuss the biopsychosocial model of health. Suggest relevant actions to prevent illness.
(b) Explain the assumptions of behaviour therapy. Discuss various techniques of behaviour therapy to treat phobia.
(c) Explain the characteristics of standardised psychological tests. Highlight the limitations of psychological tests.
3. (a) Explain Maslow’s need for hierarchy theory. Critically evaluate the same.
(b) Explain the strategies for rehabilitation of intellectually challenged person.
(c) Discuss the role of a psychologist in rehabilitation of victims of domestic violence with special reference to India.
4. (a) Discuss the importance and applications of ecological theory for programme implementation of saving the girl child.
(b) Explain Bandura’s theory for understanding criminal behaviour.
(c) Describe the applications of psychological principles in the field of marketing. Cite illustrations from Indian context.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) Explain with suitable examples the psychosocial consequences of prolonged deprivation.
(b) What are the measures to achieve social integration?
(c) Explain the role of mass media in fostering societal values.
(d) What psychological interventions can be planned to improve the performance of athletes?
(e) How does self-fulfilling prophecy work in the case of traditional Indian women?
6. (a) Discuss the steps to be taken to reduce the incidence of school dropouts among deprived groups.
(b) Discuss the psychological strategies for handling the intergroup conflict.
(c) What is achievement motivation? Discuss how family and cultural factors contribute to enhance achievement motivation.
7. (a) Discuss the psychological and social effects of pornography addiction.
(b) Discuss the strategies for promoting positive mental health among defence personnel.
(c) What is pro-environmental behaviour ? Design an intervention plan for developing pro-environmental behaviour among schoolchildren.
8. (a) To what extent an individual’s life experiences are relevant for understanding terrorism?
(b) Discuss the psychological consequences of population explosion- Suggest some techniques to enhance awareness among people for population control.
(c) How does gender socialisation in India lead to gender discrimination?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the significance of Psychology as an optional subject in UPSC Mains?
A1: Psychology is a popular optional subject in UPSC Mains because it offers a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, cognition, and the application of psychological principles in various real-world contexts. It enables candidates to approach social and administrative issues with a deeper insight into human psychology.
Q2: How many previous year papers of Psychology optional should I study for UPSC Mains?
A2: It’s advisable to study at least the last five years’ UPSC Mains Psychology optional papers. This will give you a good understanding of the question pattern, evolving trends, and the kind of questions that are frequently asked.
Q3: Are there any specific areas within Psychology that UPSC tends to focus on in the optional paper?
A3: While UPSC can ask questions from a broad range of psychology topics, some areas like developmental psychology, social psychology, and applied psychology are often emphasized. It’s important to have a strong foundation in these areas.
Q4: How can I effectively prepare for the Psychology optional paper in UPSC Mains?
A4: To prepare effectively, you should start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus, reading standard textbooks, and practicing answer writing. Additionally, consider enrolling in a reputable coaching program that specializes in Psychology as an optional subject.
Q5: Can I choose Psychology as an optional subject if I have no prior background in the field?
A5: Yes, you can choose Psychology as an optional subject even if you don’t have a background in the field. Many successful candidates have opted for this subject without prior knowledge. However, a strong dedication to studying and understanding the subject matter is essential for success in the UPSC Mains exam.
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